Question

A public health nurse (PHN) is working with a community during the recovery phase of a disaster. Which of the following attributes would be most important for the nurse to possess?

a. Flexibility
b. Organization skills
c. Personable
d. Sense of humor

Answer 1

The most important attribute for a public health nurse working during the disaster recovery phase is flexibility, which allows adapting to various unexpected changes and needs.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the recovery phase of a disaster, a public health nurse (PHN) is tasked with working efficiently and compassionately with a community that may be dealing with a wide range of challenges. The most important attribute a PHN in this situation can possess is flexibility.

This quality enables the nurse to adapt to rapidly changing situations, meet diverse patient needs, and provide care in a variety of settings.

However, other attributes such as organization skills, being personable, and having a sense of humor are also beneficial and contribute to a well-rounded skill set. Being personable helps in building trust and rapport with community members, organization skills ensure efficient use of resources and time management, and a sense of humor can be a valuable coping mechanism for both the nurse and the patients.